NDT News

NDT News

Have you decided to pursue an AWS CWI certification? If this is the case, you have probably spent countless hours doing your research to make sure you meet the requirements.

But of course, what you really want to know is how much money you can make as a CWI. If you want to know, keep reading this article.

What is a CWI?

Before you learn how much a CWI makes, you need to learn a little bit more about the nature of the work.

A CWI stands for a certified welding inspector. CWIs are essential to a variety of construction fields.

CWIs have a number of important responsibilities each day to ensure the quality of a construction project.

When working at a job site, CWIs have to inspect for a variety of things such as compliance with city and state laws, federal safety regulations, and company-specific guidelines.

When a construction project is in full swing, an inspector has to monitor the welding operations to ensure compliance to welding procedures.

If you want to become a CWI, you need 5 years industry experience if you have a high school diploma, if you do not have a high school diploma don’t fret, you can still become a CWI but will need more industry experience. It also helps to have a background in engineering, CWI prep courses, or a similar field.

I’ve received a lot of concerns from prospective students regarding Nondestructive Testing questions in the CWI exam.

Many who have taken CWI prep courses at other institutions found that the coverage of fundamental NDT knowledge is lacking. I imagine this is because most companies that offer CWI prep courses have instructors who may be knowledgeable in practical welding and visual inspection but may not have an NDT background.

AWS does not expect CWIs to be deftly knowledgeable in NDT methods but the newest version of the exam does expect CWIs to have a basic understanding of Ultrasonics, Radiography, Liquid Penetrant, Magnetic Particle and Electromagnetic Testing since NDT of welds is very ingrained in the CWIs work.

AINDT instructors are not only CWIs with a practical welding background but are also ASNT Level IIIs. I myself worked as a code welder am an SCWI and an ASNT level III.

AINDT not only provides CWI prep courses but we also provide Level I, II and III training for Nondestructive Testing in several methods. Rest assured that our CWI prep course will ensure you are sufficiently knowledgeable in Nondestructive testing.

As Demand Outpaces Supply, the Oil and Gas Industry Looks for Creative Solutions

Ask anyone in the pipeline industry, and they’ll tell you there’s a serious shortage of non-destructive evaluation (NDE) technicians in North America. A combination of stronger regulations for legacy lines and new construction, plus a lengthy certification process, has created a situation where demand for technicians outpaces supply.

As the name suggests, NDE provides pipeline owner/operators with a way to validate inline inspection (ILI) findings and evaluate anomalies without the risk of further damage. NDE technicians use magnetic particles, radiography, and high-frequency sound waves to locate anomalies in pipelines. In addition, they can confirm the severity of those anomalies – and that helps operators prioritize repairs and reduce the need for costly multiple excavations.

But the success of NDE largely depends on the technician’s ability to analyze results. And, the specific tools and technologies used to conduct NDE can vary from company to company. To ensure accuracy, it’s critical that technicians know how to use the equipment and how to interpret the results of testing.

And the only way to guarantee that is through experience – lots of it. All technicians must complete a combination of classroom and field training to earn NDE certification. Classroom hours are more theory- Addressing The NDE Technician Shortage As Demand Outpaces Supply, the Oil and Gas Industry Looks for Creative Solutions F U T U R E T H I N K I N G based, and students can apply what they’ve learned to a broad range of industries, from structural steel to pipelines. After completing the requisite classroom hours, students complete 2,000 + hours of supervised, industry-specific fieldwork, unique to their area of NDE focus.

So far, there’s no single, permanent way to create a pool of trained, qualified NDE technicians, but there have been some promising developments. Many colleges and technical schools currently offer two-year programs focused on NDE training. In addition, the industry has started to reach out to college graduates with new certification programs that reduce the training hours required for trainees with four-year degrees in engineering or science.

Pipeline service companies are also finding creative ways to build a larger pool of available NDE technicians: Some are pulling technicians from other departments or even other industries. Because there is a common knowledge base for non-destructive technology (NDT), a technician with years of experience in aerospace, for example, can transition to pipelines.

Magnetic particle test pieces will help you maintain your mag particle process by verifying magnetic particle performance. Use to check for mag particle deterioration, to compare different magnetic powders, to verify sensitivity or visibility or to assure field direction and strength. In this blog we look at the primary use of Quantitative Quality Indicators (QQIs) and Magnetic Flux Indicators which are to verify field direction and strength.

Field strength and orientation are key factors in a successful magnetic particle examination. Sufficient magnetic field must be present to form indications on the surface being examined. And because magnetism is directional in nature, only discontinuities that cross the lines of flux will produce leakage fields to form those indications.

Unfortunately, the magnetic field within the part cannot be measured directly. So many practitioners use artificial flaws or test pieces to confirm magnetic field strength. At the same time, artificial flaws can confirm direction since only those orthogonal to the lines of flux will form indications. The most common artificial flaws in use are QQIs and Flux Indicator Strips. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages to consider when choosing the right tool for your inspection.

Careers in nondestructive testing are on the rise in today’s economy. These fields are constantly advancing, and there is an ever-growing need for technicians, quality assurance specialists and inspectors. Nondestructive testing (NDT) of materials and structures, is one of the most common forms of quality control. In fact, more and more people are turning to the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) careers, including nondestructive testing to make their living.

The good news is many of these careers, such as nondestructive testing specialists, have customized curriculums that allow people to get the training and experience they need with just a two-year degree. It is not uncommon for NDT technicians to earn a minimum of $40,000 right after graduation. Paying around $10,000 for these degrees, graduates are getting a fantastic return on their educational investment.

"I started this journey with a mountain high of inspiration, but with no hope of financial realism. I knew I was certain about starting a career in NDT.

But, it takes money to earn money. I had no idea how I was going to be able to afford my education. Then I saw a commercial about the Mike Rowe scholarship foundation. I knew this was my shot to try and pursue after the education I wanted/needed.

I contacted my Mike Rowe foundation and submitted my application. I was nervous at first, had no idea what to expect, or even what to do. They made it easy, walked me thru the application steps, and kept in steady contact with me in term of the progress.

The day I found out I had been accepted, I was overjoyed, and in disbelief. I had to let reality sink in. Applying for the Mike Rowe foundation was absolutely the best decision vie ever made, it was life changing! Word can’t explain how thankful and fortunate I am to have this opportunity. And as I write this, I am full speed into my career and loving the NDT field."

AINDT offers the Radiographic Testing (RT) Level II Online Course. This course runs $699 and begins with a review of Level I subjects, continuing with the technical production of proper radiographic imaging. Studies focus on:

Optimizing contrast

Definition

Sensitivity

Film processing

Interpretation

Calculations

Shot techniques

Utilizing acceptance criteria per relevant codes and standards

This course is required for those who have completed RT I and want to advance to a higher certification level. Instructors are waiting to speak with you, so call today for more information: (855) 313-0325.

Want a new career, but the financial considerations seem out of reach? Worried your credit score won't allow you to qualify for assistance? AINDT is excited to now offer financing through Meritize. Your dreams are within reach! Meritize allows you to:

Use your transcript to enhance your credit and improve loan options

Fund the full cost of tuition on your own merit

Choose affordable fixed or variable rates

Select repayment options that work best for you-- full payments, interest-only payments, or no payments until 3 months after graduation

and so much more! Don't let finances stand in your way of a new, rewarding career in non-destructive testing. Call today for more information--instructors are waiting to speak with you! (855) 313-0325.

AINDT (Baxter, MN) offers the ASNT Level III Magnetic Particle Testing Exam Prep Course. Our online program covers in detail the components of Magnetic Particle Testing. Our prep course saves you time and money and allows you to work at your own pace. This interactive and engaging course is available on any internet-ready mobile device, including tablets. The ASNT Level III Magnetic Particle Testing Exam Prep Course is $599 and contains:

Reading assignments

PowerPoint presentations of key points for each chapter

Flashcard question review

Practice quizzes

Multiple practice final exams

Required text is included in the price and will be shipped to you when you enroll. Call TODAY to get enrolled and ready for your ASNT Level III Magnetic Particle Testing Exam Prep Course! (855) 313-0325.

Cladded metals are increasingly being used across a wide range of industries, including oil and gas production, power generation plants, chemical, and even marine ship manufacturing. Cladded metals are mainly used to increase the cost-effectiveness of metal structures while preserving or increasing safety and durability.

Cladded metals

Two or more metals can be used in layers, and they usually complement each other. For example, one layer of metal might provide corrosion resistance, while the other maintains the required structural strength. This type of cladded metal combination is common in the offshore oil industry. Here, thin layers of Inconel® or super duplex alloy can be used in conjunction with carbon steel or stainless steel alloys. In other cases, the use of stainless steel layers on carbon steel structures is a compromise between increasing corrosion resistance and keeping cost at reasonable levels.

Magnaflux co-founders, Alfred V. de Forest and Foster B. Doane, developed the magnetic testing method in the early 1930’s and it has been a core method of nondestructive testing ever since. However, even after being used by generations of NDT professionals, there are still some common areas of confusion or misunderstanding.

Here we set the record straight on 10 misperceptions we’ve seen in the field in recent years.

NDT, Quality Control, and Quality Assurance are vital to the daily function of countless companies. NDT Examinations are necessary to ensure safety and reliability for companies, personnel, products, and the public. Pipelines, bridges, motor vehicles, buildings, aircraft, water craft, power stations, trains, oil platforms, and refineries are all inspected using NDT testing methods. As a graduate of the American Institute of Nondestructive Testing (AINDT), you will be qualified to start a career in a vast array of fields such as:

Aerospace

Aviation

Auto and boat racing

Construction

Manufacturing

Oil and gas development

Amusement parks

Railroad

Alternative energy: nuclear, wind, solar

Choose a career that is as rewarding as it is lucrative. NDT is always going to be a high-demand industry, and salaries are competitive. Call today and get started today. It's that easy! Instructors are waiting to speak with you: (855) 313-0325.

Nondestructive technologies are used in every industry you can think of. NDT works behind the scenes to keep us all safer in the modern world. From transportation to bridges to pipelines to utility and power, NDT is constantly in use and will always be in demand. AINDT offers a variety of exam prep courses to get you on your way to your rewarding new career in:

Visual and optical testing (VT)

Radiography (RT)

Ultrasonic testing (UT)

Magnetic particle testing (MT)

Penetrant testing (PT)

Our blended learning program at AINDT offers both online courses and hands-on practice for the best possible preparation. Job placement assistance is part of what we do! What are you waiting for? Your exciting new career awaits. Call today: (855) 313-0325.

NDT, or nondestructive testing, plays a crucial role in assuring that structural and mechanical components perform their function in a safe, reliable, and cost-effective manner. NDT technicians perform the necessary tests to locate the indicators and discontinuities that may cause failures or shutdowns in these systems. NDT is performed in a manner that does not affect the future usefulness of the object or material, and can be employed while components are in use to detect service-related conditions caused by:

wear

fatigue

corrosion

stress

other factors

Simply put, NDT keeps the world safer for everyone. Are you ready for a new, rewarding career that will always be in demand? Call AINDT today. Instructors are waiting to speak with you! (855) 313-0325.

You need a job to pay the bills. Since you spend so much time at work, why not train for a fulfilling career instead? AINDT offers everything you need to start a new high-demand, well-paid career in non-destructive testing. Did you know non-destructive testing is a part of just about every industry you can think of? These include:

Aerospace

Construction

Defense

Laboratory

Petrochemical

Shipbuilding

Steel

Utility and power

Are you ready to make a change? Choose the rewarding industry that will always be in high demand. Let AINDT get you there. Job placement assistance is part of what we do. Call TODAY and speak to one of our instructors: (855) 313-0325.

AINDT (Baxter, MN) now offers this comprehensive prep course for ASNT Level III Basic Exam. Our prep course saves you time and money and allows you to work at your own pace. This interactive and engaging course is available on any internet-ready mobile device, including tablets. Our ASNT Level III Basic Exam Prep Course is $799 and includes:

Reading assignments

PowerPoint presentations of key points for each chapter.

Flashcard question review

Practice quizzes

Video lectures for NDT math and method demonstrations.

Multiple practice final exams

All needed books can be purchased from ASNT.org, or may be shipped to you upon enrollment. Call us TODAY and we will get you enrolled and ready for your ASNT Level III Basic Exam! (855) 313-0325.

In this article, we show how an aerospace OEM manufacturer increased NDT inspection reliability and efficiency with wide-beam, overhead LED UV-A lamps

Mercury-vapor lamps are the biggest culprits when it comes to inconsistent UV lighting. Whether you’re using a hand-held 100W lamp, a larger 400W HID fixture or even low-pressure fluorescent tube lighting, the intensity and coverage of the lamp can change dramatically throughout the day.

Not only do mercury-vapor lamps take time to warm up to full intensity, but any variation in the line voltage directly translates to a change in intensity. Power fluctuations can change from day to day, or even from shift to shift depending on what equipment is running in the plant.

Even with regular maintenance, the intensity of a particular lamp will fade over time as the bulb is used. An inspection booth with both stationary fixtures and hand-held lamps will have different coverage depending on the age of the individual bulbs and when they were last replaced.

The move from mercury-vapor lamps to LED UV lights helps to eliminate these kinds of variations, but swapping out existing lamps with LEDs can bring its own challenges.

Magnaflux is working with our customers to better understand the issues that end-users face. Below, we explain the challenges one aerospace OEM manufacturer faced, and how Magnaflux helped address their challenges.

AINDT offers top-notch training in for an exciting new career in a variety of fields that will always be in high demand. But what IS NDT? Nondestructive testing creates a safer world for all of us in our daily lives. For example, at least 126,696,000 lug nuts were NDT-tested on the 7,918,601 cars sold in the US in 2014. 61,064 structurally-deficient bridges require NDT testing for their 215 million daily crossings. Since 2007, two notable bridge failures occurred in the US due to NDT-detectable problems. Starting to get the picture? NDT testing is used in just about every major field you can think of, including 1,726,359 miles of oil and gas pipeline in the US as of 2013. With 140,000 rail miles in the US, 2014 brought 295 derailments due to structural failure which NDT detects. NDT is an ever-growing field with increasing demand. Billions of airline passengers also benefit from NDT. If you're ready for an important new career in NDT, call today to speak to one of our instructors for more information. Competitive salaries and job placement assistance are all part of NDT. Call AINDT today! (855) 313-0325.